Police investigate hit-and-run in West Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) Philadelphia police say they are searching for a hit-and-run driver who struck a man in West Philadelphia early Tuesday morning.

The center median at 52nd and Walnut in West Philadelphia was unusually empty Tuesday afternoon. Just a handful of incense sticks marking the unofficial business run here for years by a man known only by his nickname.

Incense Man-- even longtime acquaintances don't know his real name-- was struck by a hit-and-run driver just after 2 a.m. Tuesday, as he rode his bike near 52nd and Spruce, according to police. Security camera footage from several nearby businesses-- obtained exclusively by FOX 29-- shows a large, white SUV, likely a Jeep Grand Cherokee, pass a couple of cars on 52nd, and ram the bike from behind.

A separate camera shows the Jeep drive off, going through a red light and driving on the wrong side of 52nd.

Police say the victim suffered head injuries and possible fractured ribs. He was rushed to Penn-Presbyterian hospital in stable condition.

This who know Incense Man are hoping for his speedy recovery and singing his praises.